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Bathrinarayanan PV, Hallam SM, Grover LM, Vigolo D, Simmons MJH. Microfluidics as a Powerful Tool to Investigate Microvascular Dysfunction in Trauma Conditions: A Review of the State-of-the-Art. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2400037. [PMID: 39031943 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle trauma such as fracture or crush injury can result in a life-threatening condition called acute compartment syndrome (ACS), which involves elevated compartmental pressure within a closed osteo-fascial compartment, leading to collapse of the microvasculature and resulting in necrosis of the tissue due to ischemia. Diagnosis of ACS is complex and controversial due to the lack of standardized objective methods, which results in high rates of misdiagnosis/late diagnosis, leading to permanent neuro-muscular damage. ACS pathophysiology is poorly understood at a cellular level due to the lack of physiologically relevant models. In this context, microfluidics organ-on-chip systems (OOCs) provide an exciting opportunity to investigate the cellular mechanisms of microvascular dysfunction that leads to ACS. In this article, the state-of-the-art OOCs designs and strategies used to investigate microvasculature dysfunction mechanisms is reviewed. The differential effects of hemodynamic shear stress on endothelial cell characteristics such as morphology, permeability, and inflammation, all of which are altered during microvascular dysfunction is highlighted. The article then critically reviews the importance of microfluidics to investigate closely related microvascular pathologies that cause ACS. The article concludes by discussing potential biomarkers of ACS with a special emphasis on glycocalyx and providing a future perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Vasanthi Bathrinarayanan
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
- Healthcare Technologies Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - S M Hallam
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
| | - L M Grover
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
- Healthcare Technologies Institute, School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - D Vigolo
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
- The University of Sydney, School of Biomedical Engineering, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - M J H Simmons
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B152TT, UK
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2
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Chen Z, Fan L, Chen S, Zhao H, Zhang Q, Qu Y, Huang Y, Yu X, Sun D. Artificial Vascular with Pressure-Responsive Property based on Deformable Microfluidic Channels. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2304532. [PMID: 38533604 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202304532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
In vitro blood vessel models are significant for disease modeling, drug assays, and therapeutic development. Microfluidic technologies allow to create physiologically relevant culture models reproducing the features of the in vivo vascular microenvironment. However, current microfluidic technologies are limited by impractical rectangular cross-sections and single or nonsynchronous compound mechanical stimuli. This study proposes a new strategy for creating round-shaped deformable soft microfluidic channels to serve as artificial in vitro vasculature for developing in vitro models with vascular physio-mechanical microenvironments. Endothelial cells seeded into vascular models are used to assess the effects of a remodeled in vivo mechanical environment. Furthermore, a 3D stenosis model is constructed to recapitulate the flow disturbances in atherosclerosis. Soft microchannels can also be integrated into traditional microfluidics to realize multifunctional composite systems. This technology provides new insights into applying microfluidic chips and a prospective approach for constructing in vitro blood vessel models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenlin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Lei Fan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Centre for Robotics and Automation, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, China
| | - Shuxun Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Han Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yun Qu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Ya Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Xinge Yu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Hong Kong Center for Cerebra-Cardiovascular Health Engineering, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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3
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Chandra Sekar N, Khoshmanesh K, Baratchi S. Bioengineered models of cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis 2024; 393:117565. [PMID: 38714426 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Age-associated cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), predominantly resulting from artery-related disorders such as atherosclerosis, stand as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among the elderly population. Consequently, there is a growing interest in the development of clinically relevant bioengineered models of CVDs. Recent developments in bioengineering and material sciences have paved the way for the creation of intricate models that closely mimic the structure and surroundings of native cardiac tissues and blood vessels. These models can be utilized for basic research purposes and for identifying pharmaceutical interventions and facilitating drug discovery. The advancement of vessel-on-a-chip technologies and the development of bioengineered and humanized in vitro models of the cardiovascular system have the potential to revolutionize CVD disease modelling. These technologies offer pathophysiologically relevant models at a fraction of the cost and time required for traditional experimentation required in vivo. This progress signifies a significant advancement in the field, transitioning from conventional 2D cell culture models to advanced 3D organoid and vessel-on-a-chip models. These innovative models are specifically designed to explore the complexities of vascular aging and stiffening, crucial factors in the development of cardiovascular diseases. This review summarizes the recent progress of various bioengineered in vitro platforms developed for investigating the pathophysiology of human cardiovascular system with more focus on advanced 3D vascular platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Chandra Sekar
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3082, Australia; Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Khashayar Khoshmanesh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3082, Australia; Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia; Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia.
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4
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Hall E, Mendiola K, Lightsey NK, Hanjaya-Putra D. Mimicking blood and lymphatic vasculatures using microfluidic systems. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2024; 18:031502. [PMID: 38726373 PMCID: PMC11081709 DOI: 10.1063/5.0175154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
The role of the circulatory system, containing the blood and lymphatic vasculatures, within the body, has become increasingly focused on by researchers as dysfunction of either of the systems has been linked to serious complications and disease. Currently, in vivo models are unable to provide the sufficient monitoring and level of manipulation needed to characterize the fluidic dynamics of the microcirculation in blood and lymphatic vessels; thus in vitro models have been pursued as an alternative model. Microfluidic devices have the required properties to provide a physiologically relevant circulatory system model for research as well as the experimental tools to conduct more advanced research analyses of microcirculation flow. In this review paper, the physiological behavior of fluid flow and electrical communication within the endothelial cells of the systems are detailed and discussed to highlight their complexities. Cell co-culturing methods and other relevant organ-on-a-chip devices will be evaluated to demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of the in vitro microfluidic model. Microfluidic systems will be determined as a noteworthy model that can display physiologically relevant flow of the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems, which will enable researchers to investigate the systems' prevalence in diseases and identify potential therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Hall
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | | | - N. Keilany Lightsey
- Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
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5
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Lai A, Hawke A, Mohammed M, Thurgood P, Concilia G, Peter K, Khoshmanesh K, Baratchi S. A microfluidic model to study the effects of arrhythmic flows on endothelial cells. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:2347-2357. [PMID: 38576401 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00834g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia and an important contributor to morbidity and mortality. Endothelial dysfunction has been postulated to be an important contributing factor in cardiovascular events in patients with AF. However, how vascular endothelial cells respond to arrhythmic flow is not fully understood, mainly due to the limitation of current in vitro systems to mimic arrhythmic flow conditions. To address this limitation, we developed a microfluidic system to study the effect of arrhythmic flow on the mechanobiology of human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). The system utilises a computer-controlled piezoelectric pump for generating arrhythmic flow with a unique ability to control the variability in both the frequency and amplitude of pulse waves. The flow rate is modulated to reflect physiological or pathophysiological shear stress levels on endothelial cells. This enabled us to systematically dissect the importance of variability in the frequency and amplitude of pulses and shear stress level on endothelial cell mechanobiology. Our results indicated that arrhythmic flow at physiological shear stress level promotes endothelial cell spreading and reduces the plasma membrane-to-cytoplasmic distribution of β-catenin. In contrast, arrhythmic flow at low and atherogenic shear stress levels does not promote endothelial cell spreading or redistribution of β-catenin. Interestingly, under both shear stress levels, arrhythmic flow induces inflammation by promoting monocyte adhesion via an increase in ICAM-1 expression. Collectively, our microfluidic system provides opportunities to study the effect of arrhythmic flows on vascular endothelial mechanobiology in a systematic and reproducible manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Lai
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Adam Hawke
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Mokhaled Mohammed
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Peter Thurgood
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | | | - Karlheinz Peter
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Khashayar Khoshmanesh
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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6
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Zhao YC, Zhang Y, Jiang F, Wu C, Wan B, Syeda R, Li Q, Shen B, Ju LA. A Novel Computational Biomechanics Framework to Model Vascular Mechanopropagation in Deep Bone Marrow. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2201830. [PMID: 36521080 PMCID: PMC11469229 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202201830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The mechanical stimuli generated by body exercise can be transmitted from cortical bone into the deep bone marrow (mechanopropagation). Excitingly, a mechanosensitive perivascular stem cell niche is recently identified within the bone marrow for osteogenesis and lymphopoiesis. Although it is long known that they are maintained by exercise-induced mechanical stimulation, the mechanopropagation from compact bone to deep bone marrow vasculature remains elusive of this fundamental mechanobiology field. No experimental system is available yet to directly understand such exercise-induced mechanopropagation at the bone-vessel interface. To this end, taking advantage of the revolutionary in vivo 3D deep bone imaging, an integrated computational biomechanics framework to quantitatively evaluate the mechanopropagation capabilities for bone marrow arterioles, arteries, and sinusoids is devised. As a highlight, the 3D geometries of blood vessels are smoothly reconstructed in the presence of vessel wall thickness and intravascular pulse pressure. By implementing the 5-parameter Mooney-Rivlin model that simulates the hyperelastic vessel properties, finite element analysis to thoroughly investigate the mechanical effects of exercise-induced intravascular vibratory stretching on bone marrow vasculature is performed. In addition, the blood pressure and cortical bone bending effects on vascular mechanoproperties are examined. For the first time, movement-induced mechanopropagation from the hard cortical bone to the soft vasculature in the bone marrow is numerically simulated. It is concluded that arterioles and arteries are much more efficient in propagating mechanical force than sinusoids due to their stiffness. In the future, this in-silico approach can be combined with other clinical imaging modalities for subject/patient-specific vascular reconstruction and biomechanical analysis, providing large-scale phenotypic data for personalized mechanobiology discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunduo Charles Zhao
- School of Biomedical EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
- Charles Perkins CentreThe University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano)The University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
| | - Yingqi Zhang
- School of Biomedical EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
- Charles Perkins CentreThe University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano)The University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
| | - Fengtao Jiang
- School of Biomedical EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
- Charles Perkins CentreThe University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano)The University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
| | - Chi Wu
- School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
| | - Boyang Wan
- School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
| | - Ruhma Syeda
- Department of NeuroscienceUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical Center75235TXDallasUSA
| | - Qing Li
- School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
| | - Bo Shen
- National Institute of Biological ScienceZhongguancun Life Science Park102206BeijingChina
- Tsinghua Institute of Multidisciplinary Biomedical ResearchTsinghua University102206BeijingChina
| | - Lining Arnold Ju
- School of Biomedical EngineeringThe University of Sydney2008New South WalesDarlingtonAustralia
- Charles Perkins CentreThe University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
- The University of Sydney Nano Institute (Sydney Nano)The University of Sydney2006New South WalesCamperdownAustralia
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7
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Thurgood P, Needham S, Pirogova E, Peter K, Baratchi S, Khoshmanesh K. Dynamic Vortex Generation, Pulsed Injection, and Rapid Mixing of Blood Samples in Microfluidics Using the Tube Oscillation Mechanism. Anal Chem 2023; 95:3089-3097. [PMID: 36692453 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Here, we describe the generation of dynamic vortices in micro-scale cavities at low flow rates. The system utilizes a computer-controlled audio speaker to axially oscillate the inlet tube of the microfluidic system at desired frequencies and amplitudes. The oscillation of the tube induces transiently high flow rates in the system, which facilitates the generation of dynamic vortices inside the cavity. The size of the vortices can be modulated by varying the tube oscillation frequency or amplitude. The vortices can be generated in single or serial cavities and in a wide range of cavity sizes. We demonstrate the suitability of the tube oscillation mechanism for the pulsed injection of water-based solutions or whole blood into the cavity. The injection rate can be controlled by the oscillation characteristics of the tube, enabling the injection of liquids at ultralow flow rates. The dynamic vortices facilitate the rapid mixing of the injected liquid with the main flow. The controllability and versatility of this technology allow for the development of programmable inertial microfluidic systems for performing multistep biological assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Thurgood
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria3001, Australia
| | - Scott Needham
- Leading Technology Group, Camberwell, Victoria3124, Australia
| | - Elena Pirogova
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria3001, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria3004, Australia.,Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria3052, Australia
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria3082, Australia
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8
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Moradi H, Al-Hourani A, Concilia G, Khoshmanesh F, Nezami FR, Needham S, Baratchi S, Khoshmanesh K. Recent developments in modeling, imaging, and monitoring of cardiovascular diseases using machine learning. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:19-33. [PMID: 36909958 PMCID: PMC9995635 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-022-01040-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality, morbidity, and hospitalization around the world. Recent technological advances have facilitated analyzing, visualizing, and monitoring cardiovascular diseases using emerging computational fluid dynamics, blood flow imaging, and wearable sensing technologies. Yet, computational cost, limited spatiotemporal resolution, and obstacles for thorough data analysis have hindered the utility of such techniques to curb cardiovascular diseases. We herein discuss how leveraging machine learning techniques, and in particular deep learning methods, could overcome these limitations and offer promise for translation. We discuss the remarkable capacity of recently developed machine learning techniques to accelerate flow modeling, enhance the resolution while reduce the noise and scanning time of current blood flow imaging techniques, and accurate detection of cardiovascular diseases using a plethora of data collected by wearable sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Moradi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Akram Al-Hourani
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria Australia
| | | | - Farnaz Khoshmanesh
- School of Allied Health, Human Services & Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria Australia
| | - Farhad R. Nezami
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Scott Needham
- Leading Technology Group, Melbourne, Victoria Australia
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria Australia
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9
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A Physiological Control Method Based on SMC and GAPSO for Artificial Heart Pumps to Maintain Pulsatility and Avoid Regurgitation and Suction. J Med Biol Eng 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40846-022-00767-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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10
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Zhang J, Tavakoli H, Ma L, Li X, Han L, Li X. Immunotherapy discovery on tumor organoid-on-a-chip platforms that recapitulate the tumor microenvironment. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 187:114365. [PMID: 35667465 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has achieved remarkable success over the past decade by modulating patients' own immune systems and unleashing pre-existing immunity. However, only a minority of cancer patients across different cancer types are able to benefit from immunotherapy treatment; moreover, among those small portions of patients with response, intrinsic and acquired resistance remains a persistent challenge. Because the tumor microenvironment (TME) is well recognized to play a critical role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and the suppression of the immune system and responses to immunotherapy, understanding the interactions between the TME and the immune system is a pivotal step in developing novel and efficient cancer immunotherapies. With unique features such as low reagent consumption, dynamic and precise fluid control, versatile structures and function designs, and 3D cell co-culture, microfluidic tumor organoid-on-a-chip platforms that recapitulate key factors of the TME and the immune contexture have emerged as innovative reliable tools to investigate how tumors regulate their TME to counteract antitumor immunity and the mechanism of tumor resistance to immunotherapy. In this comprehensive review, we focus on recent advances in tumor organoid-on-a-chip platforms for studying the interaction between the TME and the immune system. We first review different factors of the TME that recent microfluidic in vitro systems reproduce to generate advanced tools to imitate the crosstalk between the TME and the immune system. Then, we discuss their applications in the assessment of different immunotherapies' efficacy using tumor organoid-on-a-chip platforms. Finally, we present an overview and the outlook of engineered microfluidic platforms in investigating the interactions between cancer and immune systems, and the adoption of patient-on-a-chip models in clinical applications toward personalized immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Ave., El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Hamed Tavakoli
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Ave., El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Lei Ma
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Ave., El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Xiaochun Li
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, China
| | - Lichun Han
- Xi'an Daxing Hospital, Xi'an 710016, China
| | - XiuJun Li
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 W University Ave., El Paso, TX 79968, USA; Border Biomedical Research Center, Forensic Science, & Environmental Science and Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso, 500 West University Ave., El Paso, TX 79968, USA.
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11
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Mutch NJ, Walters S, Gardiner EE, McCarty OJT, De Meyer SF, Schroeder V, Meijers JCM. Basic science research opportunities in thrombosis and hemostasis: Communication from the SSC of the ISTH. J Thromb Haemost 2022; 20:1496-1506. [PMID: 35352482 PMCID: PMC9325489 DOI: 10.1111/jth.15718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Bleeding and thrombosis are major clinical problems with high morbidity and mortality. Treatment modalities for these diseases have improved in recent years, but there are many clinical questions remaining and a need to advance diagnosis, management, and therapeutic options. Basic research plays a fundamental role in understanding normal and disease processes, yet this sector has observed a steady decline in funding prospects thereby hindering support for studies of mechanisms of disease and therapeutic development opportunities. With the financial constraints faced by basic scientists, the ISTH organized a basic science task force (BSTF), comprising Scientific and Standardization Committee subcommittee chairs and co-chairs, to identify research opportunities for basic science in hemostasis and thrombosis. The goal of the BSTF was to develop a set of recommended priorities to build support in the thrombosis and hemostasis community and to inform ISTH basic science programs and policy making. The BSTF identified three principal opportunity areas that were of significant overarching relevance: mechanisms causing bleeding, innate immunity and thrombosis, and venous thrombosis. Within these, five fundamental research areas were highlighted: blood rheology, platelet biogenesis, cellular contributions to thrombosis and hemostasis, structure-function protein analyses, and visualization of hemostasis. This position paper discusses the importance and relevance of these opportunities and research areas, and the rationale for their inclusion. These findings have implications for the future of fundamental research in thrombosis and hemostasis to make transformative scientific discoveries and tackle key clinical questions. This will permit better understanding, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of hemostatic and thrombotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J. Mutch
- Aberdeen Cardiovascular & Diabetes CentreInstitute of Medical SciencesSchool of MedicineMedical Sciences and NutritionUniversity of AberdeenAberdeenUK
| | | | - Elizabeth E. Gardiner
- John Curtin School of Medical ResearchThe Australian National UniversityCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
| | - Owen J. T. McCarty
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering and MedicineOregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandOregonUSA
| | - Simon F. De Meyer
- Laboratory for Thrombosis ResearchKU Leuven Campus Kulak KortrijkKortrijkBelgium
| | - Verena Schroeder
- Department for BioMedical Research (DBMR)University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Joost C. M. Meijers
- Department of Molecular HematologySanquin ResearchAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular SciencesAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamthe Netherlands
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12
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Thurgood P, Chheang C, Needham S, Pirogova E, Peter K, Baratchi S, Khoshmanesh K. Generation of dynamic vortices in a microfluidic system incorporating stenosis barrier by tube oscillation. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:1917-1928. [PMID: 35420623 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00135g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic systems incorporating sudden expansions are widely used for generation of vortex flow patterns. However, the formation of vortices requires high flow rates to induce inertial effects. Here, we introduce a new method for generating dynamic vortices in microfluidics at low static flow rates. Human blood is driven through a microfluidic channel incorporating a semi-circular stenosis barrier. The inlet tube of the channel is axially oscillated using a computer-controlled audio-speaker. The tube oscillation induces high transient flow rates in the channel, which generates dynamic vortices across the stenosis barrier. The size of the vortices can be modulated by varying the frequency and amplitude of tube oscillation. Various vortex flow patterns can be generated by varying the flow rate. The formation and size of the vortices can be predicted using the Reynolds number of the oscillating tube. We demonstrate the potential application of the system for investigating the adhesion and phagocytosis of circulating immune cells under pathologically high shear rates induced at the stenosis. This approach facilitates the development of versatile and controllable inertial microfluidic systems for performing various cellular assays while operating at low static flow rates and low sample volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Thurgood
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Chanly Chheang
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Scott Needham
- Leading Technology Group, Bayswater, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elena Pirogova
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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Concilia G, Lai A, Thurgood P, Pirogova E, Baratchi S, Khoshmanesh K. Investigating the mechanotransduction of transient shear stress mediated by Piezo1 ion channel using a 3D printed dynamic gravity pump. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:262-271. [PMID: 34931212 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00927c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic systems are widely used for studying the mechanotransduction of flow-induced shear stress in mechanosensitive cells. However, these studies are generally performed under constant flow rates, mainly, due to the deficiency of existing pumps for generating transient flows. To address this limitation, we have developed a unique dynamic gravity pump to generate transient flows in microfluidics. The pump utilises a motorised 3D-printed cam-lever mechanism to change the inlet pressure of the system in repeated cycles. 3D printing technology facilitates the rapid and low-cost prototyping of the pump. Customised transient flow patterns can be generated by modulating the profile, size, and rotational speed of the cam, location of the hinge along the lever, and the height of the syringe. Using this unique dynamic gravity pump, we investigated the mechanotransduction of shear stress in HEK293 cells stably expressing Piezo1 mechanosensitive ion channel under transient flows. The controllable, simple, low-cost, compact, and modular design of the pump makes it suitable for studying the mechanobiology of shear sensitive cells under transient flows.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Austin Lai
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Peter Thurgood
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Elena Pirogova
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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Aguilera Suarez S, Sekar NC, Nguyen N, Lai A, Thurgood P, Zhou Y, Needham S, Pirogova E, Khoshmanesh K, Baratchi S. Studying the Mechanobiology of Aortic Endothelial Cells Under Cyclic Stretch Using a Modular 3D Printed System. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:791116. [PMID: 34957080 PMCID: PMC8698250 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.791116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe a motorized cam-driven system for the cyclic stretch of aortic endothelial cells. Our modular design allows for generating customized spatiotemporal stretch profiles by varying the profile and size of 3D printed cam and follower elements. The system is controllable, compact, inexpensive, and amenable for parallelization and long-term experiments. Experiments using human aortic endothelial cells show significant changes in the cytoskeletal structure and morphology of cells following exposure to 5 and 10% cyclic stretch over 9 and 16 h. The system provides upportunities for exploring the complex molecular and cellular processes governing the response of mechanosensitive cells under cyclic stretch.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadia Chandra Sekar
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ngan Nguyen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Austin Lai
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Thurgood
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ying Zhou
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Elena Pirogova
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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15
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Tajabadi M, Goran Orimi H, Ramzgouyan MR, Nemati A, Deravi N, Beheshtizadeh N, Azami M. Regenerative strategies for the consequences of myocardial infarction: Chronological indication and upcoming visions. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112584. [PMID: 34968921 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart muscle injury and an elevated troponin level signify myocardial infarction (MI), which may result in defective and uncoordinated segments, reduced cardiac output, and ultimately, death. Physicians apply thrombolytic therapy, coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to recanalize and restore blood flow to the coronary arteries, albeit they were not convincingly able to solve the heart problems. Thus, researchers aim to introduce novel substitutional therapies for regenerating and functionalizing damaged cardiac tissue based on engineering concepts. Cell-based engineering approaches, utilizing biomaterials, gene, drug, growth factor delivery systems, and tissue engineering are the most leading studies in the field of heart regeneration. Also, understanding the primary cause of MI and thus selecting the most efficient treatment method can be enhanced by preparing microdevices so-called heart-on-a-chip. In this regard, microfluidic approaches can be used as diagnostic platforms or drug screening in cardiac disease treatment. Additionally, bioprinting technique with whole organ 3D printing of human heart with major vessels, cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells can be an ideal goal for cardiac tissue engineering and remarkable achievement in near future. Consequently, this review discusses the different aspects, advancements, and challenges of the mentioned methods with presenting the advantages and disadvantages, chronological indications, and application prospects of various novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Tajabadi
- School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Narmak, Tehran 16844, Iran
| | - Hanif Goran Orimi
- School of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Narmak, Tehran 16844, Iran; Regenerative Medicine Group (REMED), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Roya Ramzgouyan
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Regenerative Medicine Group (REMED), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Nemati
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic), Tehran, Iran; Regenerative Medicine Group (REMED), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloofar Deravi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Regenerative Medicine Group (REMED), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Beheshtizadeh
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Regenerative Medicine Group (REMED), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Azami
- Department of Tissue Engineering, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran; Regenerative Medicine Group (REMED), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
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Abstract
The current issue (volume 13 issue 6, 2021) is a Special Issue jointly dedicated to scientific content presented at the 20th triennial IUPAB Congress that was held in conjunction with both the 45th Annual Meeting of the Brazilian Biophysical Society (Sociedade Brasileira de Biofísica - SBBf) and the 50th Annual Meeting of the Brazilian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Sociedade Brasileira de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular - SBBq). In addition to describing the scientific and nonscientific content arising from the meeting this sub-editorial also provides a look back at some of the high points for Biophysical Reviews in the year 2021 before going on to describe a number of matters of interest to readers of the journal in relation to the coming year of 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Hall
- WPI Nano Life Science Institute, Kanazawa University, Kakumamachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1164 Japan
- Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
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Thurgood P, Concilia G, Tran N, Nguyen N, Hawke AJ, Pirogova E, Jex AR, Peter K, Baratchi S, Khoshmanesh K. Generation of programmable dynamic flow patterns in microfluidics using audio signals. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:4672-4684. [PMID: 34739024 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00568e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Customised audio signals, such as musical notes, can be readily generated by audio software on smartphones and played over audio speakers. Audio speakers translate electrical signals into the mechanical motion of the speaker cone. Coupling the inlet tube to the speaker cone causes the harmonic oscillation of the tube, which in turn changes the velocity profile and flow rate. We employ this strategy for generating programmable dynamic flow patterns in microfluidics. We show the generation of customised rib and vortex patterns through the application of multi-tone audio signals in water-based and whole blood samples. We demonstrate the precise capability to control the number and extent of the ribs and vortices by simply setting the frequency ratio of two- and three-tone audio signals. We exemplify potential applications of tube oscillation for studying the functional responses of circulating immune cells under pathophysiological shear rates. The system is programmable, compact, low-cost, biocompatible, and durable. These features make it suitable for a variety of applications across chemistry, biology, and physics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Thurgood
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | | | - Nhiem Tran
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ngan Nguyen
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Adam J Hawke
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Elena Pirogova
- School of Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Aaron R Jex
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sara Baratchi
- School of Health & Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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Swiatlowska P, Iskratsch T. Cardiovascular mechanobiology-a Special Issue to look at the state of the art and the newest insights into the role of mechanical forces in cardiovascular development, physiology and disease. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:575-577. [PMID: 34777612 PMCID: PMC8555016 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been much progress recently in the area of cardiovascular mechanobiology and this Special Issue aims at taking stock. This editorial gives context of the main motivation for this special issue as well as a brief summary of its content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Swiatlowska
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Iskratsch
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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